Proverbs 1

Proverbs 1:1-33 . After the title the writer defines the design and nature of the instructions of the book. He paternally invites attention to those instructions and warns his readers against the enticements of the wicked. In a beautiful personification, wisdom is then introduced in a most solemn and impressive manner, publicly inviting men to receive its teachings, warning those who reject, and encouraging those who accept, the proffered instructions.

2. To know . . . instruction--literally, "for knowing," that is, such is the design of these writings.
wisdom--or the use of the best means for the best ends, is generally employed in this book for true piety.
instruction--discipline, by which men are trained.
to perceive--literally, "for perceiving," the design (as above)
understanding--that is, words which enable one to discern good and evil.

3. To receive . . . of wisdom--For receiving that discipline which discretion imparts. The Hebrew for "wisdom" differs from that of Proverbs 1:2 , and denotes rather discreet counsel. Compare the opposite traits of the fool ( Proverbs 16:22 ).
justice . . . equity--all the attributes of one upright in all his relations to God and man.

4. simple--one easily led to good or evil; so the parallel.
young man--one inexperienced.
subtilty--or prudence ( Proverbs 3:21 , 5:21 ).
discretion--literally, "device," both qualities, either good or bad, according to their use. Here good, as they imply wariness by which to escape evil and find good.

5, 6. Such writings the wise, who pursue right ends by right means, will value.
learning--not the act, but matter of it.
wise counsels--or the art and principles of governing.

6. To understand--so as to . . . such will be the result.
interpretation--(Compare Margin).
words of the wise--(Compare Proverbs 1:2 ).
dark sayings--(Compare Psalms 49:4 , John 16:25 ; and

7. The fear of the Lord--the principle of true piety (compare Proverbs 2:5 , Proverbs 14:26 Proverbs 14:27 , Job 28:28 , Psalms 34:11 , 111:10 , Acts 9:31 ).
beginning--first part, foundation.
fools--the stupid and indifferent to God's character and government; hence the wicked.

8. My son--This paternal form denotes a tender regard for the reader. Filial sentiments rank next to piety towards God, and ensure most distinguished rewards (compare Proverbs 6:20 , Ephesians 6:2 Ephesians 6:3 ).

9. On the figures of Proverbs 1:9 , compare Genesis 41:42 , Solomon 1:10 , 4:9 .

10-19. A solemn warning against temptation.
entice--literally, "open the way."
consent . . . not--Sin is in consenting or yielding to temptation, not in being tempted.

11-14. Murder and robbery are given as specific illustrations.
lay wait . . . lurk privily--express an effort and hope for successful concealment.
swallow . . . grave--utterly destroy the victim and traces of the crime ( Numbers 16:33 , Psalms 55:15 ). Abundant rewards of villainy are promised as the fruits of this easy and safe course.

15, 16. The society of the wicked (way or path) is dangerous. Avoid the beginnings of sin ( Proverbs 4:14 , Psalms 1:1 , 119:101 ).